I remember when I was in a London pub last Christmas and I had a pheasant risotto. Half way through the bowl I nearly split a tooth on a piece of shot that I assume was still lodged in a piece of the pheasant. Actually found a couple more pieces in there, too. Waitress didn’t seem too bothered, but then again I think she was only about 16. I wonder if the chef would have been concerned (or if he/she was even told).
ahem, chat host Martin… having some shot in your pheasant is traditionally a sign of good food. It means that the pheasant hasn’t been bought in Iceland or somewhere. Mind you, if you had that in a pub, some con-merchant chef may have put the shot deliberately into the bird to keep up appearances. I’ve long learned to keep away from pubs for food, if I can help it. There are good pubfood guides on the web, but I found that they are not that good. However, when I’m desperate (for food, that is) and there’s nowhere else to eat, I’ve even gone into Macdonald’s for a Horseburger.
So you don’t socialise over dinner with friends & family then?
My local for years, although don’t frequent it much now I’m alone, I know the management and the chef personally. the food it top quality for a chain (albeit a small chain) I had my wedding reception there, and my son always takes his staff there for a Christmas meal. it must be good because they come all the way from 25 miles away. I take friends there too and we’ve never been disappointed. (remember that sharing sundae arc?) I will always have a word if something isn’t up to standard no matter where i’m eating. if I’m paying for a product I expect it to be well cooked and nicely presented, edible and tasty.